Five years ago, I met a great friend the night of her Augusta, GA show. Sharon Jones filled the lives of millions with her music and inspiration. Read my recent blog post for my reflections of time spent with Sharon and what she meant to me as a person.

I recorded a version of my favorite Christmas song last week. I hope you enjoy it. I am glad that the Christmas season comes every year as I feel it slows all of us down, in a very good way, so that we can better appreciate the many gifts we have been given. It's also the season when we're most cognizant of the joys we gain as gift-givers.

Here's to a wonderful holiday season to you and yours! Let us be purveyors of good cheer.

I've worked several jobs in my life other than "songwriter." I was a janitor for a while, worked in warehouses, and stripped beds at a hotel in Nashville. My greatest honor, however, in working a "day job" is to have worked The Masters Golf Tournament eleven times and for Augusta National for three. That job, and working at that special place everyday, has afforded me many special moments, meetings, and memories. The passing of Mr. Arnold Palmer last night brings back a few.

I did not know Arnold personally but I have passed him out on the sidewalk or in the hall several times. The consummate gentleman, Arnold was a champion, was humble, and had the most memorable and most radiating smile. His spirit and smile changed the room when he came through the door.

This past Masters, April 2016, I made sure that I was at the Number 1 tee box to see Arnold, Gary Player, and Jack Nicklaus officially begin the Tournament as Honorary Starters. (Watch that moment here). I will always remember being there and cheering for Arnold and celebrating his Masters wins and what he means to the world of golf.

I am not a champion golfer - far, far from it - but I love the game because it has so many parallels to life. You do not make it down the fairway and reach the cup by merely swinging a club with all your might. You have to have intention and purpose with each shot to reach your goal. As in life, every shot matters and we must swing in each moment with intention. Arnold's legacy continues to inspire me in the pursuit of mastery. Stand up, smile, take each shot with intention, and keep on moving. Thank you Mr. Palmer.